Functionality

Button LED

A button LED can be placed on the circuit board next to a button location and with the use of a translucent rubber key, individual buttons can be illuminated. This is generally used to provide additional user feedback, like which device is selected on a Universal Remote Control or for specialized functionality.

Keypad Backlighting

For many standard enclosures, a new circuit board can be designed to incorporate LED keypad backlighting functionality. The keypad can be illuminated by Red, Green, White or Blue LEDs and the duration of time that the backlighting is on can be set in software on the microcontroller. Several different methods of activating the backlighting are available and include having the backlight turn on with any key press, a dedicated backlighting button or the use of a motion sensor or vibration sensor for automated use.

Luminescent Keypads

Keypads can be fabricated with a luminescent material to provide a “glow in the dark” type of effect. The standard glowing keypad color is a yellowish-green color, but other custom colors are available. High contrast artwork against a glowing keypad can provide the ability to use the remote control in low light environments.

Feedback LED

Many standard enclosures offer a feedback LED, which will blink any time that a button is pressed. This provides feedback to the user that the remote control is working properly and transmitting a code when a button is pressed. Feedback LEDs are typically red, but can be provided in other colors like green, blue or white.

Universal Code Library

A “Universal Library” (Universal Remote Control – URC Library) can be added to a remote control to provide enhanced functionality. Universal Code libraries include TV, DVD, STB/CAB and AUDIO devices. A common example of adding Universal Remote Control library functionality would be to add a TV library to a video product to provide basic control over a TV (POWER, VOLUME, etc.) and provide a better user experience.

Dedicated Programming

A variety of programming options are available for any OEM remote control project. A remote control that has only a single code set and is only intended to control a single device would be considered a “Dedicated” remote control. The infrared protocol can be specified, along with the system code and command table to control an existing device or customized for a new product being developed.

Learning Functionality

Learning functionality can be used to supplement the codes of a Universal Remote Control Library by adding additional codes to the remote control. The original remote control would be required to “teach” the IR codes to the device. The remote would have non-volatile memory to ensure that any learned codes would not be erased when batteries are replaced.

Custom Transmission Protocol

It might be desirable to use a unique transmission protocol for a remote control product. This protocol might have specialized functionality, like “key-up” bits, a unique carrier frequency or other features. Once the product requirements are defined, a protocol specification will be created and samples will be provided for final approval.

Addressability

In some cases, the remote control might require some type of system addressability. This is typically used in a scenario where multiple remotes would be used in the same environment. The addressability of the device can be implemented in several different ways including dedicated buttons on the remote, a more complex user setup function or having a unique address programmed during mass production.

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